Iwobi Set for 100th Cap as Super Eagles Face Portugal
Super Eagles midfielder Alexander Iwobi has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Nigeria and its people as he prepares to earn his 100th international cap when the team faces Portugal in an international friendly on Wednesday.
Iwobi, who made his debut for Nigeria in October 2015 against DR Congo in Visé, Belgium, described the milestone as a proud moment in his career.
‘I am proud to be where I am today; proud to wear the green-and-white. I am grateful to everyone, including the coach who called me up to the team for the first time. I have no regrets choosing Nigeria,’ he said.
The Everton playmaker, who previously represented England at youth level, recalled how his father encouraged him to follow his heart.
‘My father always told me to go out there and enjoy my football, and make the decision that I felt was good for me. He was part of the decision but he didn’t force it down on me,’ Iwobi explained.
Reflecting on his journey, Iwobi highlighted his decisive goal against Zambia in Uyo in October 2017, which sealed Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as his most memorable moment.
‘I loved the occasion because my dad and my mum were both at the stadium and saw it all, and we celebrated together afterwards. It was an exciting moment,’ he recalled.
Despite missing out on lifting the Africa Cup of Nations trophy, Iwobi has featured in four AFCON tournaments, winning silver in 2023 and bronze in 2019 and 2025. He also represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
‘Yes, I would have loved to win the AFCON and perhaps be with the Eagles at the FIFA World Cup that is about to kick off in a few days’ time, but no regrets,’ he added.
His father, Barrister Chuka Iwobi, himself a former footballer, praised his son’s dedication.
‘We remain ever grateful to the nation for the opportunity Alex has been given. When he made his debut in 2015, little did we know that this was the beginning of an amazing and incredible journey which would lead to him achieving the milestone of a hundred caps,’ he said.
‘Alex loves playing for the nation and always gives his best. No one can ever question his commitment, devotion and patriotism while wearing the green-and-white.’
As Iwobi prepares to step onto the pitch in Leiria, Nigerians at home and abroad will celebrate not just his longevity but his unwavering devotion to the Super Eagles, with hopes that his journey continues to inspire future generations.
